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Book SynopsisDrawing on Scripture, church history, and his own story, Shane Claiborne explores how a passion for social justice issues surrounding life and death--such as war, gun ownership, the death penalty, racial injustice, abortion, poverty, and the environment--intersects with our faith as we advocate for life in its totality.Many of us wonder how to think about and act on issues of life and death beyond abortion and the death penalty--yet the heated debates in our churches and the confusion of our own hearts sometimes feel overwhelming. What does a balanced, Christian view of what it means to be pro-life really look like?Combining stories, theological reflection, and a little wit with a Southern accent, activist Shane Claiborne explores the battle between life and death that goes back to the Garden of Eden. Shane draws on his childhood growing up in the Bible Belt, his own change of perspective on how to advocate for life, and his years of working on behalf Trade ReviewA calm but passionate defense of human life at every stage. Shane Claiborne reminds us that to be pro-life means to be pro all lives, not just pro some lives, from the innocent unborn child in the womb to the guilty inmate languishing on death row. Every life is sacred. James Martin, SJ, author, Learning to Pray: A Guide for EveryoneAt a time of deep divisions, when religious faith is too often reduced to a marker of political allegiance and lines are too quickly drawn between friend and foe, Shane Claiborne offers a voice of resistance. Drawing on biblical teaching and church history, Claiborne invites readers to grapple with difficult issues with honesty, compassion, and courage. Rethinking Life is not just a book for progressive Christians but is for all Christians who seek to discern how to live faithfully in troubled times. This challenging, clear-eyed, and hope-filled book is a gift to the American church. Kristin Kobes Du Mez, author, New York Times bestseller Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a NationGreat truth is invariably simple, but not at all simplistic. It builds right on top of the very basics. Thus we have to forever relearn the basics--real well! Shane Claiborne does this almost naturally. Fr. Richard Rohr, Center for Action and Contemplation, AlbuquerqueHere is a book that courageously and effectively tackles several difficult issues around the ethics of life for those who wish to follow Jesus of Nazareth. Whether it is abortion, capital punishment, eugenics, war, or the historic culpability of the church, Shane Claiborne avoids oversimplification in any direction by focusing on the human element, offering provocative questions for both individuals and small groups to chew on. Most Rev. Michael B. Curry, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church; author, Love Is the Way and The Power of LoveI resonate with this book in the marrow of my bones! In Rethinking Life, Shane Claiborne shows us what a genuine pro-life theology, ethic, and practice demands of us and looks like in practice. Authentic Christianity has always been robustly pro-life, but it must be more than a politicized slogan selectively and narrowly applied. In Rethinking Life, Claiborne's thinking is as keen as his heart is compassionate. And best of all, Jesus shines through on every page. Brian Zahnd, author, When Everything's on FireIn matters of life and death and of the heart of God, the stakes are too high to limit our conversation partners. Claiborne has given us a probing exploration of history, biblical themes, and personal experience that demands serious consideration for an expansive ethic of life. Walter Kim, president, National Association of EvangelicalsMy friend Shane has written another terrific book. He is once again insightful and clever and has filled these pages with predictably kind and sometimes hard words. Shane is a voice I trust. I deeply value his insights, and I know you will as well. Bob Goff, New York Times bestselling author, Love Does, Everybody Always, and Dream BigPerhaps Shane Claiborne's most theologically significant work, Rethinking Life offers a profound articulation of a consistent pro-life Christian ethic, richly informed by Shane's on-the-ground experiences in activism and witness. Highly recommend! David Gushee, Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics, Mercer University; Chair in Christian Social Ethics, Vrije Universteit Amsterdam; senior research fellow, International Baptist Theological Study Centre; president emeritus, American Academy of Religion, Society of Christian EthicsRethinking Life is an intervention. In a moment when the politics of life is leading to death, master storyteller and public theologian Shane Claiborne leads followers of Jesus on a brave pilgrimage through the meaning, ethics, and politics of life--and death--and love. This is one of those books you will cherish and quote for the rest of your life. Lisa Sharon Harper, president and founder, FreedomRoad.us; author, Fortune: How Race Broke My Family and the World and How to Repair It AllShane Claiborne has once again offered the world a book that reorients our spiritual worldview toward compassion, justice, and humility. Rethinking Life dares the reader to embrace a sacred spiritual framework for life beyond hollow political talking points and shallow religious doctrine; we are called to witness the sacred in other people, cultures, traditions, faiths, classes, and racial classifications. This book pushes believers to fully live a Christ-centered life and challenges the nonbeliever to construct a moral philosophy rooted in compassion. Otis Moss III, author, Dancing in the Darkness: Spiritual Lessons for Thriving in Turbulent TimesShane Claiborne is a force of gospel power. In this book he mobilizes his energy, wisdom, honesty, compassion, and practicality into a manifesto for transformation. As a truth teller, he does not flinch from the indices of our skewed public life, marked as they are by anti-neighborly violence. In the midst of this truth telling, however, Claiborne attests to the buoyancy of a gospel faith that can be acted out in any circumstance of our distorted life together. If readers follow his testimony, they will surely be led to life in a 'contrast culture' that traffics in God's love and restorative justice, which are sure to create zones of well-being. This is a book that is wise in its expose and fervent in its hope giving. What matters is to read attentively and then to act accordingly. Walter Brueggemann, Columbia Theological SeminaryShane's latest offering to the church, Rethinking Life, provides a useful juxtaposition of personal encounters and sacred text to guide us toward shaping a theologically sound Christian ethic informed by our lived experiences. While we may not arrive at the same conclusion in every circumstance, Rethinking Life sets a bountiful table of ideas and tools useful in reasoning together, when collective reasoning seems rare. I am certain I will return to this book often in the days and years to come. Rev. Traci D. Blackmon, associate general minister, Justice and Local Church Ministries, United Church of ChristWhat does love require of us? That is a question Christ followers need to be asking at every crossroads (and with every breath), and everyone else would benefit from asking it as well. This question and a variety of biblically rooted and profound answers are at the core of Rethinking Life. Shane Claiborne has a unique and powerful voice as he comments on the call of the church at this historic moment; he makes camp in the no-man's-land between the two sides of the cultural wars, exuding the winsome fragrance of Christ. You don't have to agree with all of his answers (not even his wife does, as Shane admits in the book), but there is no doubt that his questions matter, and his responses are provocative in all the best ways. Rev. Dr. Alexia Salvatierra, academic dean, Centro Latino; associate professor of mission and global transformation, Fuller Theological SeminaryWhen I am dismayed by how little Christians are turning to Jesus these days, along comes my dear younger brother in Christ, Shane Claiborne, with a new word or call, and now a new book! My students at Georgetown are deeply hungry for the 'rethinking of life,' and Shane is one of the best authors I know to help them do that. Despite their skepticism of religion, the young people I talk with every day are still deeply attracted to Jesus, and Shane offers them a real introduction to the one who most guides us to rethink everything. Jim Wallis, inaugural chair and founding director, Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown UniversityWith theological savvy, historical insight, and uncommon wisdom, Shane Claiborne reminds us of the subversive power of telling the truth, being unafraid to follow wherever it leads. In summoning the followers of Jesus to become 'midwives of a better world,' Claiborne's prophetic voice has never been clearer--or more timely. Randall Balmer, author, Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right

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Book SynopsisClimate Church, Climate World, originally published in 2018, contends that climate change is the greatest moral challenge humanity has ever faced. Hunger, refugees, poverty, inequality, deadly viruses, war—climate change multiplies all forms of global social injustice. Environmental advocate Rev. Jim Antal calls on the church to meet this moral challenge, to embrace a new vocation so that future generations might live in harmony with God’s creation. After illuminating how human beings are responsible for the dangers our planet now faces, Antal proposes how people of faith can embrace new approaches to worship, preaching, witnessing, and other spiritual practices that honor creation and cultivate hope. This revised and updated edition includes a new chapter on political and policy shifts under the Trump and Biden administrations; influence of Greta Thunberg and climate change activists; and updated information on the current science of climate change. Includes a foreword by environmental advocate Bill McKibben, author of The End of Nature.Table of ContentsForewordBy Bill McKibbenPrefaceAcknowledgmentsIntroductionThe Earth Is the Lord’s, Not Ours to Wreck: Imperatives for a New Moral EraQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection1 The Situation in Which We Find OurselvesWhat Have We Done?Taking Responsibility—The AnthropoceneHow Long Have We Known?Are We Paying Attention?What’s at Stake? How Urgent Is the Crisis?Are We Choosing Extinction?We’re All In This TogetherWe Already Have Everything We NeedForward MomentumQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection2 A Loving God for a Broken WorldFinding God in a Broken WorldShould We Try to Keep Our Hearts from Breaking?Gratitude for a God of LoveHow Do We Remain Faithful?Julian Bond’s Testimony in HandcuffsThe Mine and the Snow Geese—A Story for Our TimeThe Story of the Mine and the Snow Geese: A PostscriptQuestions for Group Discussion and Further ReflectionInterlude: If We Fail to Heed Our CallingA Letter from a Pastor to Her Congregation on the Occasion of the Closing of the Church on Ash Wednesday 2070Questions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection3 The Church’s Vocation TodayWhat’s Church For?History’s Lessons for an Unprecedented TimeWith God, There Are No ExternalitiesGod Calls Communities, Not Just Individuals…We All Live at the Same AddressOur Covenant With God: For All Time—With All CreaturesGolden Rule 2.0Our Children’s TrustConfronting the End of ContinuityA Kairos Moment—Time for a Moral InterventionQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection4 The Marks of the Church in a Climate Crisis WorldOur Role as Keepers of ContinuityBuilding Resilient CommunitiesIt’s Not Just About Me: From Personal to Communal SalvationStep 1: Confess Complicity; Step 2: Change the SystemEmbracing Spiritual Progress in Place of Material ProgressSacrifice and Sharing as Guiding VirtuesEmbracing Moral InterdependenceGlobal Warming Intensifies All Forms of InjusticeConfront the Powers and PrincipalitiesSharing Our Fears and Hopes: Empowering ActionTruth and Reconciliation Conversations in Every House of WorshipCivil Disobedience—the Church Acts on Its ConscienceA Repurposed Church for a New Moral EraAffirming these Marks of the Church in a CovenantQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection5 Discipleship: Reorienting What We PrizeResilience in Place of GrowthCollaboration in Place of ConsumptionWisdom in Place of ProgressBalance in Place of AddictionModeration in Place of ExcessVision in Place of ConvenienceAccountability in Place of DisregardSelf-Giving Love in Place of Self-Centered FearCivil Disobedience and DiscipleshipQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection6 Worship as a Pathway to FreedomHow Much Is Enough? Climate Talk in ChurchThe First Announcement at Every Church ServiceInvite Weekly TestimoniesTransform Familiar Liturgies and Create New OnesOrganize and Host a Climate RevivalWorship that Includes All CreaturesOrdination Vows and New Life in the AnthropoceneIf Earth Were a Sacrament, How Would We Treat It?Undomesticating WorshipTaking Liturgy to the Street, the Pipeline, and the TracksConclusionQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection7 Prophetic Preaching: Freeing the Pulpit from FearCalled to Preach on Climate ChangeWhy Preaching on Climate Change MattersThe Church Was Born for ThisPastors Must Prepare Their HeartsCultivating Courage—“Be Not Afraid”Offer Hope—We Are Called to Change the StoryThe Theological Foundation for Preaching on Climate ChangePreaching on Climate Change— Ten ConsiderationsQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection8 Witnessing Together: Communal Action Can Free Us from FearNot the Vocation I Started WithWhat Is Witnessing?Making Civil Disobedience a Normative Expression of Christian DiscipleshipDriven by Love and Gratitude with Fear as a CatalystDivestment: Revoking the Social License to Wreck CreationA New Take on Fiduciary AccountabilityA Global Commons—End the Ownership of NatureBuilding the Kingdom of God: Society Based on “The Common Good”Questions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection9 Trump, Biden, Greta—Years of Upheaval, 2018-2022Finally—A Climate Bill (by another name) PassesWhat Made Congress Act on Climate?Truth Forever on the ScaffoldA New Moral Era—Yes! But Which One?Nature Cannot Be DeceivedCongregations Responding to Covid and ClimateWe’re Paying More Attention to the Climate CrisisThe Green New Deal—Aspiration Amidst UpheavalYouth Cannot Be IgnoredImagine If…What’s a Climate Church?Our Generation Has a Vocation—We’re ALL In This TogetherQuestions for Group Discussion and Further Reflection10 Living Hope-Filled Lives in a Climate Crisis WorldNot Optimism . . . But HopeFacing Reality—A Precondition of HopeExpressing Grief—A Precondition of HopeAcknowledging the Existential Threat of Climate ChangeThe Conviction of Things Not SeeableThe Conviction of Things Not Seen—Telling a New Story of HopeLiving a New Story of HopeSpiritual Practices for Cultivating HopeQuestions for Group Discussion and Further ReflectionEpilogueImagine: A Message to the Church—Presented by a Teenager in 2100Questions for Group Discussion and Further ReflectionAppendixPreaching Suggestions for a Climate Crisis WorldFurther ReadingNotesIndexAbout the Author

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Book SynopsisWhile garnering the attention of professionals across disciplines, from medicine to public health to psychology, and frequently covered as a topic of public concern in the news media, the elevated occurrence of suicide attempts among LGBTQ persons has received little attention within the literature of theology and religious studies. This book fills that lacuna by addressing the role that religious, spiritual, and theological narratives play in shaping the souls of queer folk. Taking a narrative approach to qualitative interview material from LGBTQ individuals who survived their suicide attempts, Cody J. Sanders argues that theological narratives can operate violently upon the souls of LGBTQ people in ways that make life precarious and, at time, seem unlivable. The book critically addresses the violence of theological narratives upon queer souls, filling a crucial void in scholarship concerning the role of religion—specifically Christianity—in LGBTQ suicide. Ultimately, the author draws upon the interview material to move readers toward constructive methods of contributing to the resistance and resilience of queer souls in relation to soul violence, asking how we can intervene with practices of care in order to cultivate livability of life for queer people.Trade ReviewThe strength of Christianity, LGBTQ Suicide, and the Souls of Queer Folk is its ability to carry readers beyond mere theory. Mental health practitioners, medical professionals, congregations, and any who might by vocation or social setting be with LGBTQ persons in or on their way to crisis should consider this volume necessary reading. * Review and Expositor *LGBTQ youth continue to face a higher risk of suicide than their heterosexual and/or cisgender peers.... Sanders’ book takes on this troubling reality and critically investigates the role of religion - specifically Christianity - in LGBTQ suicide. Writing as a Christian pastoral theologian in the context of the US, Sanders aims to fill a gap within current theological and religious studies in understanding this disturbing phenomenon. His work utilizes a narrative approach as an interdisciplinary method to analyze the experiences of nineLGBTQ survivors of suicide from different Christian denominations.... I locate Sanders’ book as part of the ongoing and urgent work that still needs to be done to disrupt the complicity of churches in perpetuating toxic theologies that degrade LGBTQ lives. Yet, this work is also the demanding task of all beyond ecclesial spaces committed to serve the human flourishing of LGBTQ persons. Through Sanders’ commitment to theology as public discourse, one hears his invitation to intentionally cultivate “public, shared spaces for collaborative theological engagement” through what Arthur Frank calls a “dialogue of imaginations” in storytelling (p. 130).This invitation to dialogue must move forward to engage religious and spiritual traditions beyond Christianity, as well as non-faith-based settings. This invitation must be seriously taken up by all who work with LGBTQ youth, with whom we share our common life and for the common good that is theologically constituted by the religious and spiritual narratives told. * Journal of LGBT Youth *Sanders (a Baptist minister associated with both Harvard and MIT) makes a substantial contribution to conversations around LGBTQ people and pastoral care. This book grows out of a research study he completed in which he interviewed nine LGBTQ individuals “for whom life at one time or another came to seem unlivable" (p. 6). Sanders writes that many of his participants "voiced a desire to help churches to become safer, more life-giving places for LGBTQ people" (p. 29). The book focuses on bringing the narratives of these nine participants “into conversation with the literature of philosophy, theology, psychology, and varied other disciplines.” Sanders covers a lot of terrain in helping his communities understand why LGBTQ people consider or attempt suicide. A necessary resource for scholars of religion, divinity students, and students of social work, this book will help those working in pastoral or social contexts better support and affirm the lives of LGBTQ people. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Graduate students, researchers, faculty, and professionals. * Choice *Sanders’ research expertly uncovers a narrative and theological account of suicide as a social phenomenon and bodily manifestation of “soul violence.” Sanders also corrects social scientific and psychological literature by highlighting competing theological narratives and their intensifying and constituting functions. Part of the “Emerging Perspectives in Pastoral Theology and Care” series through Lexington Books, Christianity, LGBTQ Suicide, and the Souls of Queer Folkoffers major contributions to the ways we engage narratives, care for suicide survivors, and imagine practices of resistance and resilience. For the queer person seeking agency, for the caregiver and faith community seeking interventions, for the theologian and psychologist seeking new queer metaphors, this work brilliantly offers a multiplicity of lessons, insights, and practices. * Theology & Sexuality *Cody J. Sanders offers a close look at the role of Christian narratives in the lives of nine LGBTQ people who have attempted suicide and survived. . . . Sanders encourages churches to acknowledge publicly the soul violence that has been done to queer people, as well as to cultivate the capacity for the religious resistance and theological imagination that can help support the livability of life for queer souls. * The Christian Century *Listening carefully and closely to the complex stories told by and about queer folks, Rev. Dr. Cody J. Sanders speaks truthfully about matters of life and death for LGBTQ individuals. Caregivers, communities of faith, and individuals are invited to join queer folk as they resist violence to soul and body, and seek substantive ways to construct a flourishing life. Rev. Dr. Sanders' theological analysis is provocative and welcome as he points toward concrete practices and interventions for walking alongside Christian queer folks. -- Joretta Marshall, Brite Divinity SchoolI highly and enthusiastically recommend Christianity, LGBTQ Suicide, and the Souls of Queer Folk. Author Cody Sanders delivers on their promise to offer “guidance in reforming our religious practices in ways that promote the livability of life for LGBTQ people.” For pastoral caregivers—and anyone else, in fact—who is concerned about the souls and lives of queer folk, this book is an indispensable resource. -- Bernard Schlager, Pacific School of ReligionTable of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroductionChapter 1God, Stories, and Queer SoulsChapter 2Troubled Stories, Best Hopes, Precarious SurvivalChapter 3Theological Ambush Chapter 4Soul ViolenceChapter 5Religious Resistance Chapter 6Holding One’s OwnChapter 7Revisioning the Care of SoulsConclusion Constructive Lessons for Practices of CareBibliography About the Author

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Book SynopsisIn Gospel-Driven Ministry, Jared Wilson looks at the qualifications for the pastorate, addressing the notion of a call to ministry and how to identify the marks of maturity and affirm a call. In addition, he unpacks the eight core practices of pastoral ministry and offers guidance to prepare pastors for long-term, healthy ministry.Trade Review'Current and future pastors--and those who love them--need to read this book. Jared Wilson opens up the pages of Scripture and his heart as well to give us the inside scoop on pastoral work and identity. Clearly he has a heart for ministry. With a quarter century of pastoral experience under his belt, he has much to share. Writing in a warm and personal style, Wilson explores most every aspect of ministry you can think of. Replete with scriptural references and personal examples, this is a volume of practical wisdom by which every pastor can chart a voyage through the tempestuous seas of contemporary ministry with confidence. Christ-centered and gospel-focused, this book is devoid of the platitudes and easy answers found in similar pastoral guides. Jared Wilson bares his soul in this book to share not only his profound insights into shepherding but also his anxieties, fears, and failures. In other words, he points not to himself but to Jesus, who is the great shepherd of the sheep and--thank God--of every pastor as well.' * Harold L. Senkbeil, executive director emeritus, DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel, author of The Care of Souls *'Gospel-Driven Ministry is an honest, practical, instructive, and comprehensive work on pastoring that I wish would have been available to me twenty-five years ago. Jared writes from a rich and robust experience in ministry, sharing his pastoral highs with humility and his pastoral lows with vulnerability. This is a refreshing contribution to those setting out on the pastoral road and for those who might be weary walking it.' * J. R. Vassar, lead pastor, Church at the Cross, Grapevine, Texas, author of Glory Hunger *'I'd recommend this book to any pastor, especially those just starting in their ministry, and any others desiring to understand what faithful leadership in God's church looks like. Saturated in the gospel-depth that has characterized his other books, Jared Wilson shows us that a church leader is not just a defender of truth but a servant of people. I was particularly moved by Jared's challenge that we represent the love of God to people who walk through our doors. What an incredible and weighty privilege. May God use this book to raise up a generation of faithful servant leaders!' * J. D. Greear, pastor, the Summit Church, president, Southern Baptist Convention *'If you know one thing about Jared, it's that he has an unwavering passion for gospel-centrality. Gospel-Driven Ministry reads like a greatest hits of Jared's wisdom and experience from years of pastoring both local congregations and local pastors. A must-have for pastors and ministry leaders who desire to keep the gospel at the core of their ministry and practice.' * ­Ronnie Martin, lead pastor, Substance Church, Ashland, Ohio *'Jared Wilson's new book, Gospel-Driven Ministry, represents my friend's steadfast commitment to marinate in the riches of God's grace, to steward both the wounds and joys of pastoral life, and to keep the gospel central to leaders and ministries. Jared writes with a depth beyond his years, wisdom gained after seminary, and a heart captured by the glory and grace of Jesus. Please give this book to neophytes and seasoned veterans in the ministry of the gospel.' * ­Scotty Smith, pastor emeritus, Christ Community Church, Franklin, Tennessee, teacher in residence, West End Community Church, Nashville, Tennessee *'Often in ministry things can be driven by pragmatics rather than principles. Rosters needs to be arranged, meetings attended, and sermons delivered. In the midst of the urgent, however, it is easy for the pastor to forget the very basis and purpose of their service. In Gospel-Driven Ministry Jared Wilson provides a timely and necessary reminder of the transformative power of the gospel as the cornerstone of all effective pastoral ministry. With the warmth and wisdom of a seasoned pastor, Wilson calls the reader to consider not only the shape of their ministry but more importantly their motivation for it.' * ­Malcolm Gill, director of postgraduate studies, lecturer in Greek, New Testament, and homiletics, Sydney Missionary and Bible College, Sydney, Australia *'Only an experienced pastor could write this book. It handles the vicissitudes of pastoral life and ministry with compassion. You'll feel known as you read it. But it is more than that. This book is treasure from a pastor who digs deeply when shepherding individual souls. It is wisdom for leading the whole church. If you apply its guidance, your flock will not only feel known but also be well-pastored. In fact, Jared Wilson's heart for Christ's church moved me to pastor better, and his pastoral gems showed me how to do so. Most importantly, absorbing this book will yield more of Christ in you and his church.' * Jonathan Dodson, lead pastor, City Life Church, and author of Gospel-Centered Discipleship, Here in Spirit, and Our Good Crisis *'There are certain books that pastors should read once a year to regain their gospel sanity, clarity of calling, passion for the Savior, love for their people, and a renewed sense of what their daily work is. Gospel-Driven Ministry is one of those books. It holds the gospel forward not just as preachers' core message but also as the model and motivation for who pastors should be and what they are called to do. Pastors, buy this book and put it in your yearly reading rotation.' * Paul Tripp, pastor, speaker, author *'We're in a pastoral ministry crisis. Evidence abounds--from pastors who are disqualifying themselves, to those who are burning out. Not to oversimplify matters, but I wonder if one reason for this crisis is a pastoral ministry that has become unmoored from the gospel. In Gospel-Driven Ministry, Jared Wilson, with clarity and the requisite pastoral experience, seeks to bring us back to the gospel roots that drive faithful pastoral ministry. If you are considering pastoral ministry or are in the habit of training gospel ministers, pick up this book and use it as a 'gospel primer' for ministry. If you've been in ministry for some time and are doubting yourself or your ministry, struggling to press on, pick up this book as a 'gospel refresher' for ministry. A ministry rooted in the good news of all that God is for us in Christ will magnify our triune God and encourage his people.' * Juan R. Sanchez, senior pastor, High Pointe Baptist Church, Austin, Texas *'Whether you are new pastor or a seasoned veteran of many years, Gospel-Driven Ministry will educate, instruct, and encourage you in your service to the Lord and his people. Combining personal experience, theological understanding, and a deep love for Christ's church, Jared Wilson offers timely wisdom for those called, in these challenging times, to shepherd the flock of God.' * Brian Brodersen, pastor, Calvary Chapel, Costa Mesa, California *

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Book SynopsisThis book explores three schools of fascinating, talented, and gifted scholars whose philosophies assimilated the Jewish and secular cultures of their respective homelands: they include halakhists from Rabbi Ettlinger to Rabbi Eliezer Berkowitz; Jewish philosophers from Isaac Bernays to Yeshayau Leibowitz; and biblical commentators such as Samuel David Luzzatto and Rabbi Umberto Cassuto.Running like a thread through their philosophies is the attempt to reconcile the Jewish belief in revelation with Western culture, Western philosophy, and the conclusions of scientific research. Among these attempts is Luzzatto's "dual truth" approach.The Dual Truth is the sequel to the Ephraim Chamiel's previous book The Middle Way, which focused on the challenges faced by members of the "Middle Trend" in nineteenth-century Jewish thought.Table of ContentsVolume ITranslator’s NoteForeword to the English EditionIntroductionChapter One:Samson Raphael Hirsch: The Neo-Orthodox, Neo-Romantic Educator, and his Approach of Neo-Fundamentalist IdenticalityChapter Two:Interpretations of Hirsch’s Thought from the Right and the LeftChapter Three:“Heavenly Reward”—Samuel David Luzzatto’s Doctrine of Divine Providence—between Revelation and PhilosophyChapter Four:Development of Halakhah: Luzzatto’s Evolving ViewsChapter Five:The Peshat is One, Because the Truth is One: Luzzatto between Interpretation and ThoughtChapter Six:Luzzatto and Maimonides: “Accept Truth from Whoever Speaks It”Chapter Seven:Luzzatto on Theosophical Kabbalah: Harmful Invention with Worthy IntentionsChapter Eight:Between Reason and Revelation: The Encounter between Rabbi Tsvi Hirsch Chajes and Nahman KrochmalVolume IIChapter Nine:Hirsch’s Influence on Religious Jewish Philosophy in the Twentieth CenturyChapter Ten:Hirsch’s Influence on Rabbi David Tsvi Hoffmann’s Commentary on the PentateuchChapter Eleven:Hirsch’s Influence on Twentieth-Century Halakhic DecisorsChapter Twelve:The Influence of German Neo-Orthodoxy on the Young Rav KookChapter Thirteen:Luzzatto’s Influence on Umberto Cassuto’s Method of Biblical InterpretationChapter Fourteen:Tolerance, Pluralism, and Postmodernism—A Dialectic of Opposites in Jewish Thought in the Modern Era

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Book SynopsisPreaching in the Purple Zone is a resource for helping the church understand the challenges facing parish pastors, while encouraging and equipping preachers to address the vital justice issues of our time.This book provides practical instruction for navigating the hazards of prophetic preaching with tested strategies and prudent tactics grounded in biblical and theological foundations. Key to this endeavor is using a method of civil discourse called “deliberative dialogue” for finding common values among politically diverse parishioners. Unique to this book is instruction on using the sermon-dialogue-sermon process developed by the author that expands the pastor’s level of engagement on justice issues with parishioners beyond the single sermon. Preaching in the Purple Zone equips clergy to help their congregations respectfully engage in deliberation about “hot topics,” find the values that bind them together, and respond faithfully to God’s Word.Trade ReviewThis book is one of the most helpful resources to teach and learn how preachers give prophetic voices to controversial justice issues in the midst of socially and politically divided times. Based on her rich experience of preaching ministry, rigorous scholarly and scientific research, and pastoral sensibility, Dr. Schade provides the reader with practical wisdom for prophetic preaching. -- Eunjoo Kim, Iliff School of TheologyIn these turbulent political times, Dr. Leah Schade offers a hopeful and realistic roadmap for preaching to listeners with diverse opinions. Concrete examples for a process beyond the Sunday sermon provide opportunities for growth and healing. This is a much-needed book at a critical juncture in the Church—not just for leaders but for the laity as well. -- Rev. Angela Zimmann, vice president of institutional advancement and adjunct professor of homiletics, United Lutheran SeminaryThe past generation of scholarship in homiletics has been leading to Preaching in the Purple Zone. Field tested and theologically grounded, Schade provides a truly conversational blueprint for preachers who want to preach about difficult social justice issues with their congregations rather than simply to their congregations. In our contentious cultural moment, this book is a gift to preachers, congregations, and the world. -- Richard Voelz, assistant professor of preaching and worship, Union Presbyterian SeminaryHow can preachers engage diverse congregations in difficult moral conversations that often have political implications? And how can preachers preach sermons that capture the complexities of those conversations while nudging participants forward toward new and better moral understandings and social commitments? These are the core questions answered in this well-researched, clearly written, and wise book. Strongly recommended. -- John S. McClure, Charles G. Finney Professor of Preaching and Worship, Vanderbilt Divinity SchoolThere’s nothing sophomoric about Leah Schade’s sophomore contribution in homiletics. Drawing its wisdom from her preaching, classroom, and community activism expertise, Preaching in the Purple Zone refreshingly offers controversy-averse pastors a quantitatively researched, timely guide for decentering the progressive versus conservative (idolatry of perspective) battle in theologically constructive ways. Schade’s skill building ‘five paths’ preaching methodology invites preachers into prophetically conscious sermon preparation and urges them to reconceive preaching as a biblical, theological, co-creative task—one that shifts preaching’s objective from, as she rightly puts it, ‘simply opening minds and hearts, to moving hands and feet in tangible ways.’ -- Kenyatta R. Gilbert, professor of homiletics, Howard University School of DivinityLeah D. Schade has dedicated herself as a pastor and theologian to bringing the social gospel of Christianity into congregational dialogue, and she is realistic about doing so in our polarizing and messy culture. With her commanding knowledge of homiletic literature and years of experience as a Lutheran pastor, and having surveyed over twelve hundred preachers and done training with the National Issues Forum, Schade presents a comprehensive sermon-dialogue-sermon process that can bring a congregation into respectful learning and a more consequential practice of relevant discipleship. I plan to use this book as a peer-learning resource for Roman Catholic preachers who value Catholic social teaching but seriously wonder how to preach on potentially threatening issues such as racism or health care at the end of life. -- Gregory Heille, professor of preaching and evangelization, Aquinas Institute of Theology, St. LouisLeah Shade’s Preaching in the Purple Zone should be required reading for pastors who preach to congregations that include both conservative and liberal listeners, seeking a way to address difficult, controversial issues. This book is a clear, profound, and practical homiletical resource for our current culture of animosity and incivility. Shade identifies fears that ‘muzzle’ prophetic preaching, chief among them the objection that our preaching is ‘too political.’ She offers a biblical, theological, homiletical rationale for prophetic preaching that shifts the focus from the lone voice of the preacher to a shared conversation in the congregation. She outlines a process of deliberative dialogue by which both preacher and congregation can grow together in engaging tough topics. The book includes sample sermons and detailed guidelines for addressing current issues. My advice: buy, read, and use this book! -- Alyce McKenzie, director of the Center for Preaching Excellence, Perkins School of TheologyHere are three reasons why preachers need to read Dr. Leah Schade’s Preaching in the Purple Zone: (1) Know you’re not alone. Based on her extensive surveys and interviews, Dr. Schade proves you’re not alone in your concerns about prophetic preaching or weathering their potential consequences. (2) Craft prophetic sermons wisely and pastorally. Apply these sage, practical suggestions and real-life examples to develop your purple-zone sermons in concert with those who will hear them. (3) Know what to do afterward. After the sermon you’ll have the steps you need to continue to develop relationships with your listeners—whether they agree with the sermon or not—to proclaim the Gospel together. Thanks to this book you'll be able to preach your purple zone sermons with deeper theological and biblical craftsmanship, purpose, and care. -- Lisa Cressman, author of Backstory Preaching: Integrating Life, Spirituality and CraftIf you are looking for a recitation of preaching techniques, this is not the book! If you crave insight and guidance for leading a faith community in this fractured and fractious time, you’ll find it in these pages. Leah Schade offers guidance that will lead you deep into the issues that divide our civic and faith communities to discover common values, commitments, and shared work centered in Christ crucified and risen for the life of the world. By weaving preaching carefully into the fabric of the community’s life together, Leah provides theologically rooted, eminently practical, and effective guidance that brings together prophetic and pastoral roles into one public ministry. Those who follow her guidance will find both roles deepened in their own ministries and will see their faith community knit together in new and life-giving ways that empower preacher and community together to share the new, abundant, and lasting life of Christ with the world with vigor and grace. -- Bishop William O. Gafkjen, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in AmericaWhat an invaluable and timely book! Preaching in the Purple Zone addresses head-on the many significant divides we face in church and world, and posits a way forward for preaching that is marked by genuine dialog, deep engagement with the scriptures and one another, and a pastoral commitment to tackling divisive issues with openness and humility. Leah Schade helpfully models what she proposes by her ongoing use of actual sermons and conversations around controversial issues she and her students have engaged. Ultimately this book is about more than preaching; it is about how the church can prophetically model an alternative way to live together in the midst of a seriously polarized nation and world. -- Leonora Tubbs Tisdale, Clement Muehl professor of homiletics emerita, Yale Divinity SchoolPreaching in the Purple Zone is the preaching book for the times in which we live. Almost every preacher has red and blue voters in their pews—sometimes on the same row. Learning ways to preach in these conflicting times is a skill richly needed, and Leah Schade has the lessons for us in this exciting and intriguing book. It's going to be on my preaching resource shelf from now on. -- Karyn L. Wiseman, United Lutheran SeminaryIn this season of our life as a church and a nation, the capacity to reach a broad spectrum of political and theological views is being put to the test. In Preaching in the Purple Zone, Dr. Schade helps us address the emergent, often ‘messy,’ matters and wide-ranging opinions within our faith communities with grace and integrity. Preaching in the Purple Zone is an excellent guide that helps clergy courageously and respectfully engage with their congregations to discover and sometimes create an intersection of common values while faithfully preaching the gospel. -- Cynthia Fierro Harvey, Bishop, Louisiana Conference of The United Methodist ChurchFeel called to preach on justice themes related to current issues, but worry about backlash from a divided congregation in a divided culture? Schade comes to the rescue. Her sermon/dialogue/sermon approach is a practical, pastoral way to get the prophetic conversation rolling. A must read! -- O. Wesley Allen, Jr., Lois Craddock Perkins professor of homiletics, Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist UniversityRooted in Jesus’ ability to stimulate dialogue, Schade’s book provides preachers with a scholarly approach to prophetic proclamation and practical direction to engage worshippers in faithfully deliberating the issues of the day. Preaching in the Purple Zone echoes de Tocqueville’s respect for the role of religion in civic life. -- Gregg Kauffman, ELCA pastor, Kettering Foundation Research AssociateWhen ‘red’ and ‘blue’ convictions meet, is an outcome other than purplish bruises all around even possible? ‘Yes!’ says Leah Schade. The purple zone, where blue meets red in deliberative dialogue, is a place for royal celebrations of life-changing truth proclaimed with never-ending love. Preachers and parishioners alike will find here a marvelous roadmap for honest interaction that produces light and hope for the journey ahead. -- Brad A. Binau, Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital UniversityTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1 Preaching about Controversial Justice Issues: Tracing the Contours of the Purple Zone 2 Beyond “Political”: Reframing Our Understanding of Politics and Preaching 3 Homiletical Foundations for Purple Zone Preaching 4 Five Paths of Prophetic Preaching in the Purple Zone 5 Preparing for the Sermon-Dialogue-Sermon Process 6 Preaching Sermon 1: Prophetic Invitation to Dialogue 7 Deliberative Dialogue in the Purple Zone 8 Preaching Sermon 2: Communal Prophetic Proclamation 9 Case Studies from the Purple Zone, Part 1: Immigration 10 Case Studies, Part 2: Four Journeys into the Purple Zone 11 Building Bridges in the Purple Zone: Where Do We Go from Here? Appendix A: Sample Newsletter Article Announcing Deliberative Dialogue Appendix B: Options for Planning One, Two, or Three Sessions for the Deliberative Dialogue Appendix C: “Cheat Sheet” Questions to Encourage Deliberation Notes Selected Bibliography Scripture Index Index

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Book SynopsisWriting in response to our current “constitutional crisis,” New York Times bestselling author and Christian activist Jim Wallis urges America to return to the tenets of Jesus once again as the means to save us from the polarizing bitterness and anger of our tribal nation.In Christ in Crisis? Jim Wallis provides a path of spiritual healing and solidarity to help us heal the divide separating Americans today. Building on “Reclaiming Jesus”—the declaration he and other church leaders wrote in May 2018 to address America’s current crisis—Wallis argues that Christians have become disconnected from Jesus and need to revisit their spiritual foundations. By pointing to eight questions Jesus asked or is asked, Wallis provides a means to measure whether we are truly aligned with the moral and spiritual foundations of our Christian faith. “Christians have often remembered, re-discovere

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Book SynopsisA groundbreaking new collection, Christianity and Constitutionalism offers a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives on the relationship between Christian thought, history, and practice, and constitutional law and its related fields.Trade ReviewScholars of the American founding have long noted the influence of Reformed Protestant Christianity on the background assumptions of the framers—both about language and the nature of republican government—but this collection of essays provides more depth and insight on that topic than ever before. I highly recommend this book for both academics and general readers interested in the connections between Christianity and the Constitution. * Michael W. McConnell, Richard & Frances Mallery Professor, Stanford Law School; Director, Stanford Constitutional Law Center; Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution *The relationship between religious thought and constitutionalism is the focus of this book...the contribution it makes to an understanding of the important connections between religion, specifically Christianity, and constitutionalism, are worthy of attention. * Commonwealth Lawyers' Association and Contributors *Highly recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty. * Choice *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Contributors Contents INTRODUCTION 1 INTRODUCTION: Christianity and Constitutionalism Nicholas Aroney and Ian Leigh Part I: The Historical Influence of Christianity 2 OLD TESTAMENT: Torah and Constitutionalism Jonathan Burnside 3 NEW TESTAMENT: "But our constitution is in heaven": New Testament sketches on the people of God between divine law and earthly rulers Dorothea H. Bertschmann 4 ANTIQUITY: Constantine and Constitutionalism Peter Leithart 5 PATRISTIC ERA: Augustine's Constitutionalism: Citizenship, Common Good, and Consent Mary Keys & Colleen Mitchell 6 MIDDLE AGES: Canon Law Constitutionalism? Richard Helmholz 7 REFORMATION: The Protestant Reformation of Constitutionalism John Witte Jr. 8 MODERNITY: Understanding Law and Constitutionalism in Modernity: The Critical Contribution of English Reformation Public Theology Joan Lockwood O'Donovan Part II: Christian Perspectives on Constitutionalism 9 SOVEREIGNTY: Dual, Plural and One Joel Harrison 10 RULE OF LAW: The Sacred Roots and Secular Shoots of the Supreme Law Li-ann Thio 11 DEMOCRACY: Self-Government and the Kingdom of Heaven Richard Ekins 12 SEPARATION OF POWERS: Biblical Foundations of the Separation of Powers and the Catalytical Judicial Role Carlos Bernal 13 RIGHTS: Christian Constitutional Rights? Julian Rivers 14 FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE: Freedom of Conscience Assessing the Christian Contribution Ian Leigh 15 FEDERALISM: A Legal, Political and Religious Archaeology Nicholas Aroney PART III: Christian Theology and Constitutionalism 16 REVELATION: Scripture and Covenant David VanDrunen 17 TRINITY: Against Leviathan: The Implications of Trinitarian Theology for Constitutionalism David McIlroy 18 JUSTICE: Justice the Constitution and the Purpose of the Political Community Jonathan Chaplin 19 CHRISTOLOGY: Christology and Constitutionalism Tracey Rowland 20 NATURAL LAW: Natural Law and Natural Right Revisited John Milbank 21 SUBSIDIARITY: Origins and Contemporary Aspects Iain T. Benson 22 ESCHATOLOGY: The Greater Operation of Liberty Douglas Farrow

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Book SynopsisJohn Paul Lederach explores the evolution of his understanding of peacebuilding by reflecting on his own experiences in the field. Peacebuilding, in his view, is both a learned skill and an art. Finding this art, he says, requires a shift in worldview. Conflict professionals must envision their work as a creative act - an exercise of what Lederach calls the "moral imagination."Trade ReviewToday the telecommunications and transport revolution has made the world a smaller place offering both an opportunity and challenge to the major leading countries to come together to shape the world, overcome violence and create a peaceful global community. John Paul Lederach presents a powerful case for the use of the moral imagination in rising to this challenge, thus creating authentic new possibilities. This book provides a valuable contribution to peacebuilding literature and I welcome it wholeheartedly. * John Hume, Winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace *This is a wonderful book it resonated, provoked and exhilarated me, challenging me to think very carefully and deeply about why peace builders do what they do. It also offers some profound compass points for direction which may help to keep many of us sane and focused in the midst of the chaos and violence that so often makes up our world. * Mari Fitzduff, Brandeis University *The Moral Imagination is an eloquent and personal meditation on the challenge of peacebuilding by one of the fields most insightful theorists and practitioners. Professor Lederach correctly observes that the years following the tragedy of September 11, 2001, represent a precious opportunity to address underlying cycles of violence and insecurity, locally and globally. It will take courage and creativity, but it is an opportunity we must not let pass us by. * Jimmy Carter, Chairman, The Carter Center *Much exists in the conflict resolution literature about method and technique, little about art and soul. John Paul Lederach, a theorist of great insight who also happens to be a practitioner of high skill, brings us deep into his own process of learning and the results are marvelous. He offers us a rich fare of insights, stories and metaphors that captivate the moral imagination this world so badly needs. Consider this book a precious treat! * William Ury, co-author of Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement without Giving In and author of The Third Side: Why We Fight and How We Can Stop *In its depth of wisdom regarding the dynamics of soul, spirit and society that lead good people to become effective practitioners of conflict transformation in war zones, The Moral Imagination could serve as the magnificent capstone to a life's work. The thrilling fact, however, is that Lederach stands not at the end but at the midpoint of a remarkable journey of conciliation, peacebuilding and ethical reflection. This book is a milestone in that journey; there is nothing quite like it in the literature of social change, peace and conflict studies, theology, ethics, and spiritualit? * for it weaves those disciplines together into a seamless, riveting whole.R. Scott Appleby, Professor of History and John M. Regan, Jr. Director of the Joan B. Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame *Table of Contents1. On Stating the Problem and Thesis ; 2. On Touching the Moral Imagination: Four Stories ; 3. On This Moment: Turning Points ; 4. On Simplicity and Complexity: Finding the Essence of Peacebuilding ; 5. On Peace Accords: Image of a Line in Time ; 6. On the Gift of Pessimism: Insights from the Geographies of Violence ; 7. On Aesthetuics: The Art of Social Change ; 8. On Space: Life in the Web ; 9. On Mass and Movement: The Theory of the Critical Yeast ; 10. On Web Watching: Finding the Soul of Place ; 11. On Serendipity: The Gift of Accidental Sagacity ; 12. On Time: The Past That Lies before Us ; 13. On Pied Pipers: Imagination and Creativity ; 14. On Vocation: The Mystery of Risk ; 15. On Conclusions: The Imperative of the Moral Imagination

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